Saoirse spokesperson Bernie Farrell has welcomed today's demonstration of
support by politicians from all parties in Leinster House for gravely ill
republican prisoner Pat Kelly.

``I understand that 170 TDs and Senators have so far signed the petition
which is to be handed in to the British Embassy in Dublin this afternoon
calling for Pat Kelly's transfer to Portlaoise Priosn, `` said Saoirse
spokesperson Bernie Farrell.

``This demonstrates the widespread and unanimous support which exists among
our politicians and the public at large to see Pat Kelly moved nearer his
family and to ensure that he receives adequate medial treatment. It is to
their great shame that the British government has so far chosen to ignore
these humanitarian calls.

``What hope can there be for the peace process if the British government
continues to refuse to show compassion or humanity to a man who it
critically ill with cancer?

``Indeed, we are still waiting for the British to authorise the transfer of
any prisoner under the terms of the European Convention. All the
republican prisoners in England have applied to be moved to Ireland to
serve their time nearer their families.

``We will continue to campaign for the transfer home of all republican
prisoners pending their release.''